Just a short and scenic 25-minute drive from Walla Walla is a delicious reason to visit Waitsburg, Washington. American 35 is a welcome addition to the quaint downtown with its family-friendly vibe, craft cocktails, and wood-fired pizza. Tom and Judy Bennett have owned and operated their mobile wood-fired pizza truck, Fiasco Pizza, for years. Their authentic, Neopolitan-style pizzas were already wildly popular in the Walla Walla Valley before opening the spacious and homey restaurant in the spring of 2022.
What started as a food truck pipedream has turned into a community gathering space with a full bar and an extensive menu of Neopolitan pizzas (not to mention killer local veggies and housemade desserts). American 35 hosts many events, including live music, dance classes, trivia night, axe throwing, and more! (Visit their website for a list of current happenings.)
Salumi platter with selected imported salami and prosciutto, spiced olives, and flatbread.
Tom is a real food nerd, and he’s very committed to using high-quality ingredients and local produce whenever possible. The Salumi Platter featured on the menu changes regularly depending on what’s available; he sliced us up some melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto and spicy hot coppa on our visit.
The pizza oven and pies flowing out of it are quite a sight to behold. Choose from one of over a dozen pizzas on the menu, or build your own. American 35 offers a diverse (and delicious) cocktail menu as well, which includes original and classic cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic spirits for the sober curious.
Amaretto Sidecar | Rosie the Riveter: vodka + lemon + Aperol + Disaronno
Annie Oakley: whiskey + lemon + simple syrup + Aquafaba
Margherita pizza with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil
Beet salad with arugula, pickled red onion, goat cheese, pepitas, and mirin dressing.
The fresh salads and other greens are almost as popular as the pizzas (vegetarians have no fear; there are plenty of options for you on the menu at American 35).
Roasted brussels sprouts with roasted garlic, garlic/lemon dressing, and grated parmesan
American 35 is a place for gathering around the bar, the pool table, or in one of the (very popular) pizza classes (check out their website + Instagram for the next one)! You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists alike at this hangout, with regulars appearing at the bar almost immediately upon opening.
Pot Brownie: House-made brownie in a pot, fired in the oven, with vanilla ice cream
Whatever you’re craving, American 35 has you covered. Walk-ins are welcome here, and reservations can be made on Toast. Happy eating!
By: Stephanie Forrer
Read more of Stephanie’s Pacific Northwest adventures at www.eatdrinktravelyall.com!